Stab victim an easy target, say friends

An architect stabbed in a street robbery may have been targeted because of his appearance, his friends said today.

The 29-year-old, who has not yet been named by police, is fighting for his life after being stabbed in the stomach while out on his lunch break.

Friends, who know the man as Bernie, say he may have looked like an easy target. Alan Rosen, 45, a printer who lives in Bethnal Green, said: "They started on him because he looks like a professor with his Harry Potter glasses.

"He's a really intelligent, nice bloke."

The stabbing took place in Mansford Street, Bethnal Green, near the office of architects Davy Smith at about 2pm on Wednesday.

The man was repeatedly knifed after refusing to hand over his wallet. His attacker is believed to have taken the money before calmly walking way.

Wahid Ferdons, 24, found the victim outside his flat.

"His shirt was soaked in blood and he was bleeding very badly," he said.

The attacker is described as dark-skinned, possibly Asian, with long, sweptback curly hair and distinctive "shave marks". Anyone with information should call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.